For the most part, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were enjoyable, this category seems mostly depleted nowadays. Yet the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains sitting on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's new Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.
Impressive Pacing and Personal Development
One of this movie's strongest strengths lies in the superb pacing. It kicks off using a striking initial scene in which a peaceful family party gets suddenly interrupted by a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, an extremely undead-looking stranger emerges and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately succeeded by a flashback, allowing us to observe this household prior to the disaster occurred.
In contrast to many zombie films, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary characters prior to the chaos begins. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex best friend, Karina, is now wed to her dad—an obviously awkward dynamic. This has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, who is good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and he loves playing video games alongside his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately cheated on her. The family patriarch consists of her dad, the owner of a popular herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his business and his wife to Nes' former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so invested with this family's dynamics and their personal conflicts to the point I nearly forgot I was watching a scary movie—which might sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a considerable portion of the film depicting us the identity of every family member is, and how they contribute to the general dysfunction. This focus on conflicting traits allowed the audience to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment in a genre that often introduces individuals only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir doesn't treat its characters as flat, expendable casualties for an army of the undead to consume, thus it's a real shock once events finally go wrong.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself like a K-Drama featuring slightly dark humor before making an abrupt shift toward shocking ground. These early scenes aren't centered too heavily on humor as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient opportunity to settle into its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Original Zombification Origin
The film also offers a quite intriguing reason for the source of the spreading zombification. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the source of this infectious condition originates in a recent sample of Wani Waras herbal remedies created by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding its origins, it would have been better if the film devoted additional time on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the limited background, the effect this affliction produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies prove fast, freaky-looking, and, perhaps worst of all, always smiling. This is a bold choice, but it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and are practically certain to provoke a fear of holes.
Capable Personalities
Even better compared to the disgusting scenes is the cast themselves. Certainly, there are some instances of dubious choices (like any typical undead film), however generally, Nes and her family are resourceful and quick-thinking. They also don't hesitate to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey in headlights as death approaches.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict once individuals start turning into zombies, which was a welcome authentic deviation from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" trope often seen in apocalyptic movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and values her spouse, Rudi, but it's also clear she remains holding onto bitterness regarding his infidelity in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree over the phone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang admits he is unaware how to get there, Nes expresses an immense level of irritation on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not flawless, and her family—with all their imperfections—seem authentic and understandable because the film avoids attempting to promote the idea that nearly dying immediately resolves familial strife. This causes the moments when these characters do show appreciation for each other feel much more genuine.
Predictable Conclusion
Despite The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir doesn't truly presenting some profound message regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's mostly serving up frights. Yet these are successful frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and doesn't punish them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and enjoyable
